Table of contents:
Whether you realize it or not, you may find yourself avoiding encounters with people who have stye. This is done because you are afraid of catching it, even if it's just a glance. So, is it true that the stye is contagious? Check out the answer here.
Are the stye contagious?
A stye, which is called a hordeolum in medical terms, is a red, pimple-like bump that appears on the outside of the eyelid. This can occur on the upper or lower lids, depending on the location of the infection.
This eye infection is caused by the entry of bacteria, dead skin cells, or dirt that clogs the oil glands on the eyelids. As a result, the eyelids become swollen, feel lumpy, and often feel pain.
But keep in mind, this does not mean you should stay away from those with stye. The reason is, stye is not transmitted directly from eye contact with sufferers.
Quoted from Medicine Net, these bacteria cannot pass from one person to another easily, especially just through the gaze. These bacteria need an intermediary to be able to move and infect other people's eyes.
However, stye eyes can also be contagious, if …
The itching sensation that is caused often makes the sufferer unable to bear to rub the eyes. However, no matter how itchy it is, you should avoid rubbing your eyes so that the infection doesn't get worse.
Without realizing it, these bad habits also pave the way for bacteria to move into the hands. Although it rarely happens, you can run the risk of catching a stye if you shake hands with someone who has just touched or rubbed their infected eye. Moreover, you also reflex to touch your eyes afterwards.
That is the reason why you are advised to be diligent in washing your hands after shaking hands with other people. Yes, hands are one of the most common and fastest growing media for disease transmission.
Therefore, never touch your eyes with your hands directly, let alone rub them. If your eyes feel itchy, you should use a tissue or a clean, safer handkerchief.
No less important, from now on you no longer need to stay away from people who have eye infections of any kind by reason of being afraid of contracting them.
